Park Seo-jun Reflects on 'Surely Tomorrow' Finale and His Return to Romance

"There can be various interpretations of the ending, but I believe the writer tied up the loose ends. The line 'See you at the funeral' from the end of Part 1 seemed like a hint about the conclusion."

Actor Park Seo-jun addressed viewers' mixed reactions to the ending of JTBC's weekend drama 'Surely Tomorrow.' The final episode featured a sudden death of Cha Woo-seok (played by Kang Ki-doong), leading to a reunion of the main characters. Some viewers criticized the plot, saying, "Did they kill him just for the reunion?" and "The storyline is absurd."

In response, Park Seo-jun commented, "Death often comes unexpectedly. I think the message to the protagonists is to cherish the moment and be honest with their feelings."

'Surely Tomorrow,' which concluded on the 11th, is a romance drama about Lee Kyung-do (played by Park Seo-jun) and Seo Ji-woo (played by Won Ji-an), who reunite after a breakup as a journalist who reported a scandal and the wife of the scandal's subject. Park Seo-jun portrayed Lee Kyung-do, a dedicated entertainment journalist who has loved one woman for 18 years.

Reflecting on the series, Park Seo-jun said, "I spent the entire last year on 'Surely Tomorrow.' There are various forms of love, and this project allowed me to deeply explore a pure love story. It was also a time to reflect on my own life."

Returning to romance after seven years since 'What's Wrong with Secretary Kim,' Park Seo-jun explained, "As an actor, I wanted to explore different roles, so I chose genre works after 'Secretary Kim.' I was drawn to the 18-year romance narrative of 'Surely Tomorrow.' It seemed like the right time in my life to portray it. I hoped viewers would reflect on the meaning of love through this role."

Park Seo-jun played Lee Kyung-do from his 20s to late 30s. When asked about his own 20s, he said, "I was introverted and spoke even less back then. I thought carefully about every word. Looking back, there was a weight and seriousness to silence. I tried to express that while portraying Lee Kyung-do." He added, "Like Kyung-do, I also speak up when something is wrong and tend to think deeply."

"Through Kyung-do, I reflected on the meaning of love. Love is heavy. I try my best, but loving as intensely as Kyung-do is not easy. Sometimes I wonder if it's possible, but watching Kyung-do makes me think it might be."

He also spoke about his on-screen romance with Won Ji-an, who is 11 years younger. Park Seo-jun said, "I was concerned about the age difference, but she was so composed that it wasn't noticeable. I trusted the director's choice and believed it would be a good partnership."

As a senior actor, Park Seo-jun shared advice with Won Ji-an on enduring the challenges of filming. He said, "During months of shooting, there are times when things don't go well. It's important to maintain energy to perform at an average level. Being in good condition helps mentally endure. After filming, I reflect on what I did and plan for the next day. I shared these thoughts with her."

'Surely Tomorrow' started with a 2.7% viewership rating and concluded with 4.7%, achieving a respectable finish. When asked if he was disappointed with the average 3% ratings, Park Seo-jun said, "I can't control the ratings, but it's hard not to think about them as they are a visible indicator."

He added, "As someone involved in the project, I hope it reaches many people. The team I worked with was wonderful, and I hope it leaves a meaningful impression on everyone."

"I believe we finished well. I had many concerns during filming, but seeing the completed work, I have no regrets. I'm left with a sense of pride."

Tae Yuna, TENASIA Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr